Motorcyclists have welcomed a debate in the House of Commons, on the opening of bus lanes for motorcycles.

The debate, responded to by Minister for Transport Dr Stephen Ladyman, highlighted that there have been no negative effects caused by bikes in bus lanes and that unless there is any special reason local authorities should be permitting and encouraging the safe use of bus lanes.

In some local authorities, including Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Peterborough and Essex, motorcycles are already permitted to benefit from bus lanes and in some regions, bikes can use bus lanes in some counties but not in others. There is no national, clear guidance on usage and, as a result, it is left to the discretion of each local authority.

The Transport for London study which is evaluating the use of bus lanes by motorcyclists in the city has, in their provisional report, found that it reduces the vulnerability of riders without affecting the vulnerability of other road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

Transport Minister, Dr Ladyman, said that bikes using bus lanes had many positive benefits and that it could help to make motorcycling a more mainstream form of transport, as stated in the Government's own motorcycling strategy.

Craig Carey-Clinch, of the motorcycle industry body, the MCI, said: " This debate is fantastic news for road safety. We know there are many successful schemes across the UK that have permitted bikes in bus lanes and we expect to see this grow. It is imperative that local authorities are aware that this simple measure can help to create a safer environment for all road users.

"The MCI urges all authorities to act on this advice and expand the use of bus lanes and help to mainstream motorcycling."